AUSTIN – Colonel Steve Duke participated Dec. 12 in the 48th annual production of Ballet Austin’s “The Nutcracker,” the longest running production of the ballet in Texas. Duke served as this year’s “Mother Ginger,” following in the footsteps of other Fort Hood dignitaries and Texas celebrities.

Duke, director of the Maneuver Test Directorate, U.S. Army Operational Test Command, carries on a military tradition that began in 2004 with Beth Chiarelli, wife of Gen. Peter Chiarelli, then-commander of the 1st Cavalry Division, as the first Fort Hood Mother Ginger.

Other Fort Hood celebrity Mother Gingers include Brig. Gen. Don MacWillie, OTC commanding general; former OTC commanders Brig. Gen. Chris Tucker and Col. Curtis Potts; and Command Sgt. Maj. Larry Wilson, former OTC senior-enlisted advisor. Other Texas celebrities who have appeared as the guest Mother Ginger include Lance Armstrong, Robert Rodriguez, Gov. Ann Richards, Luci Baines Johnson, Molly Ivins, Hollywood Henderson, Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison and Michael Dell.

“It’s a great way to get into the Christmas spirit, and it’s an honor to be asked to take part in a wonderful holiday tradition,” Duke said before the performance. He took the stage at the 2 p.m. matinee held Dec. 12 at the Long Center for the Performing Arts.

“We are pleased to be able to honor our service members who so gallantly and selflessly defend and protect America,” Cookie Ruiz, Ballet Austin executive director, said.